What is demyelinating disease?

The myelin sheath is a protective fatty material that wraps, protects and insulates the nerve fibers of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. It enables brain signals to travel quickly along nerves to the rest of the body. Any disease that causes damage to the myelin sheath that slows or stops nerve signals is called a demyelinating disease. There are a number of demyelinating diseases in childhood, of which Pediatric Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an uncommon one.

What causes demyelinating disease?

Causes are multifactorial and include genetic, postinfectious, post-immunization, and autoimmune (the body produces proteins which damage its own tissue).

What are the symptoms of demyelinating disease?

There are many common clinical, radiological and laboratory features and a wide variation in the way each particular disease presents, develops, which and how many nerves are involved, and whether the process fluctuates (gets better than worse again) or not. Symptoms of demyelinating disease can include muscle weakness, muscle spasms, loss of coordination, pain, vision loss, changes in bladder and bowel function and other problems.

What are demyelinating disease care options?

No cure exists for demyelinating diseases; early recognition, supportive care and early treatment with medications may help minimize and manage symptoms. Rehabilitation therapies are of particular importance.

From the Newsdesk

An Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder(s) 01/30/2018 —
This class is offered to parents, family members and caregivers who are involved in the care of a child diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). An occupational therapist and speech language pathologist will discuss the diagnosis of ASD, and answer questions during open discussion session. This course will be offered in Spanish.

Lucas’ Success Story 01/15/2018 —
August 15, 2017 was the day my son Lucas was admitted to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital for purposes of treating uncontrollable seizures. After being admitted at a previous children’s hospital on three consecutive occasions and many EEGs later, we were referred to Nicklaus Children’s by a neurologist.